During his sentencing hearing on Monday, Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl apologized to those wounded while searching for him after he deserted the United States military in Afghanistan.

“My words alone can't take away their pain,” Bergdahl said, according to Fox News. Bergdahl pleaded guilty to deserting the military in 2009 and faces the prospect of life in prison.

National Guard Master Sgt. Mark Allen, who endured a brain injury after getting shot during a search mission for Bergdahl, can't speak and uses a wheelchair, according to his wife.

Allen's wife, Sharon, described how her husband's demeanor changed after the injury and how his interactions are limited with their daughter. “He's never had the chance to really play with her or help coach her sports or ask about her day,” Sharon said.

Also on Monday, Army Col. Jeffrey Nance ruled that Bergdahl could receive a fair sentence despite President Donald Trump's sharp criticism of him.

“I am completely unaffected by any opinions President Trump may have about Sgt. Bergdahl,” Nance, the judge in the sentencing hearing, said.